Once She Came Like a Flash novel Chapter 96

**TITLE: Faith Didn’t Survive Time – by Aadi Sharma**
**Chapter 96**

Gasping for breath, Renee hurriedly approached Jasper, raising her arm to halt his progress.

“Thank you so much for what you did at the welfare center,” she said, her voice laced with sincerity. As her gaze flicked sideways, she caught sight of Ace standing a few paces away, a mischievous glint igniting in her eyes. “How about this? I just picked up some groceries. Let me treat you to lunch.”

Jasper stood there, clad in a deep gray V-neck shirt, the sleeves rolled up to his elbows, revealing forearms that spoke of strength and a certain rugged charm. A sapphire-blue Patek Philippe watch adorned his wrist, glinting in the light as he casually tucked his hands into his pockets, effortlessly radiating an aura of confidence.

His hair was slicked back, accentuating his strikingly handsome features. The sharp lines of his jaw and high cheekbones gave him an air of enigmatic authority that commanded respect, tinged with an undercurrent of intimidation.

“You cook?” Jasper inquired, a hint of surprise coloring his tone.

“Of course I do. I—”

Before she could elaborate on her culinary talents, Luke, who had just strolled over after parking the car, interjected, “You want to treat us to lunch, Ms. Whitley? My boss is pretty particular about food.”

Jasper shot Luke a piercing glare, a silent reprimand that sent a shiver down Luke’s spine. He could feel the weight of Jasper’s icy gaze, a reminder of the hierarchy that existed between them.

“No worries. If you like it, eat more. If not, eat less,” Renee replied with a bright smile, her demeanor lightening the moment. “After all, you guys have done so much for me.”

While today’s lunch was undoubtedly a gesture of gratitude, it wasn’t the sole reason she had invited him.

Jasper’s eyes drifted to her bandaged leg. “Your leg’s still hurt. Maybe next time,” he suggested, his expression betraying his concern. The unspoken thoughts echoed in his mind: ‘Letting someone just discharged from the hospital cook for me? What would people think?’

“No problem. It’s almost healed,” Renee insisted, sensing the hesitation in his voice. “Come on, let’s head upstairs.”

The four of them, including Ace, stepped into the elevator, the air thick with anticipation.

“Need any help?” Jasper asked as they arrived at the 29th floor, his tone still laced with concern.

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